You can leave the paper in until you sew the surrounding blocks and then remove it. This will prevent any bias edges from stretching. You don't have to leave it in beyond that. I, too, use the wrong edge of a seam ripper. It's easy to take out and perfect for when you are watching tv or just sitting down to have a break.

Paper is easy to remove. Use a small drywall spatula (I use mine in wallpapering and wall repair) - available in any paint dept. The edge is great for placing against the seam and then just simply remove the paper. Works great. No paper scraps left. I use this method in my own foundation piecing all the time.

Paper is easy to remove. Use a small drywall spatula (I use mine in wallpapering and wall repair) - available in any paint dept. The edge is great for placing against the seam and then just simply remove the paper. Works great. No paper scraps left. I use this method in my own foundation piecing all the time.

Never would have thought of that. Isn't it amazing the things we quilters come up with !